Related Articles
The first ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka kicks off on Sunday, January 7, 2025, at the Basin Reserve, Wellington. After winning the T20I series 2-1, New Zealand will aim to maintain their dominance in the ODIs as they prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy. For Sri Lanka, this series presents an opportunity to experiment and build towards the next World Cup.
Match Details
| Fixture | New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, 1st ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | January 7, 2025 |
| Time | 7:30 AM IST / 3:00 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
Teams Preview
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand’s ODI performance has been inconsistent recently, with three losses in their last four matches. However, they’re coming off a series win against Bangladesh and will aim to carry that momentum forward.
The batting lineup is formidable, with Will Young and Rachin Ravindra expected to play key roles. Young was the top scorer in their last ODI series, and Ravindra’s ability to contribute across formats will be crucial. Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham bring experience to the middle order, while the lower order boasts depth with all-rounders like Mitchell Santner.
The bowling attack, led by Matt Henry and Jacob Duffy, will be tasked with exploiting the conditions at the Basin Reserve. Duffy was in excellent form during the T20Is, and his rhythm could make a significant impact in the ODIs.
Key Players: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Matt Henry
New Zealand Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Will Young | Batter |
| Mark Chapman | Batter |
| Rachin Ravindra | All-rounder |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
| Tom Latham (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Glenn Phillips | All-rounder |
| Mitchell Santner (c) | All-rounder |
| Jacob Duffy | Bowler |
| Will O’Rourke | Bowler |
| Matt Henry | Bowler |
| Nathan Smith / Michael Bracewell | All-rounder |
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka have enjoyed success in ODIs recently, winning three consecutive series against India, West Indies, and New Zealand on home turf. However, they must now adapt to overseas conditions.
The batting unit has promising names like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Avishka Fernando, who are capable of anchoring the innings and shifting gears when required. Charith Asalanka, their captain, brings stability to the middle order and offers handy spin options.
Wanindu Hasaranga will lead the bowling attack, with Jeffrey Vandersay supporting him in the spin department. Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara will spearhead the pace attack, though their consistency will be under scrutiny in unfamiliar conditions.
Key Players: Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pathum Nissanka
Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Pathum Nissanka | Batter |
| Avishka Fernando | Batter |
| Kusal Mendis (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Charith Asalanka (c) | All-rounder |
| Kamindu Mendis | All-rounder |
| Dunith Wellalage | All-rounder |
| Jeffrey Vandersay | Bowler |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | All-rounder |
| Asitha Fernando | Bowler |
| Lahiru Kumara | Bowler |
| Janith Liyanage | Batter |
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Rachin Ravindra |
| Vice-Captain | Kusal Mendis |
| Batsmen | Will Young, Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando |
| All-rounders | Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Wanindu Hasaranga |
| Wicketkeeper | Tom Latham |
| Bowlers | Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Jeffrey Vandersay, Lahiru Kumara |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve offers a balanced track with something for everyone. Seamers will enjoy early movement, especially in overcast conditions, while batters will find it easier to score as the game progresses. The pitch also provides some assistance for spinners in the latter stages of the match.
- Average First-Innings Score: 217
- Highest ODI Score at Basin Reserve: 318-6 by New Zealand against Bangladesh
Toss Prediction: To Bowl
With the possibility of early moisture and swing, both captains are likely to prefer bowling first.
Weather Report
Wellington will see cloudy skies with a high chance of morning showers, potentially causing a delayed start. Temperatures will range between 13°C and 18°C, with breezy conditions expected throughout the day.
Winning Prediction
New Zealand hold the edge, given their familiarity with home conditions and the recent confidence boost from their T20I series win. Sri Lanka, while talented, might struggle to adapt to the pace and bounce at the Basin Reserve.
Prediction: New Zealand to take the lead in the series.
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App
